Grizzlies' Edey Shines in Play-In Win Over Mavericks

The Memphis Grizzlies secured their playoff berth with a decisive 120-106 victory over the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA play-in tournament. While Ja Morant's electrifying performance grabbed headlines, a key factor in the Grizzlies' success was the unexpectedly strong showing of center Zach Edey. This article delves into Edey's impactful contribution and how a film session changed the team's perspective on his capabilities.

Edey's Unexpected Heroics

Coach Tuomas Iisalo's pre-game film review of the Grizzlies' April 15th loss to the Golden State Warriors revealed a surprising truth about Edey's performance. While the initial observation might have suggested otherwise, the numbers showed Edey surprisingly held his own against the Warriors’ star, Jimmy Butler III. This newfound confidence in Edey translated directly into the high-stakes game against the Mavericks.

Edey's Dominant Performance

Against the Mavericks, Edey delivered a masterful performance, showcasing his multifaceted abilities. In 32:11 minutes, he amassed 15 points on a highly efficient 7-for-9 shooting, grabbed 11 rebounds, and contributed 2 blocks. Beyond the impressive stats, Edey's energy was infectious. He tirelessly chased down loose balls, consistently secured rebounds, and provided crucial screens, freeing up teammates for easy baskets. His impactful presence on the court helped dictate the flow of the game.

• Points: 15
• Rebounds: 11
• Blocks: 2
• Field Goal Percentage: 77.8%

Morant's Leadership, Grizzlies' Dominance

While Edey's performance was a crucial component of the Grizzlies' victory, Ja Morant’s leadership was equally vital. Morant’s 16 first-half points, 5 assists, and 5 rebounds set the tone, allowing Memphis to build a commanding 17-point lead. Desmond Bane also contributed significantly, adding 15 points in the first half. The Grizzlies' overall dominance, fueled by the combined efforts of their stars and Edey’s impactful play, ultimately secured their playoff spot.

Grizzlies Face Thunder in the Playoffs

The Memphis Grizzlies will now face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the NBA Playoffs. The impressive performance of Zach Edey, coupled with the continued excellence of Ja Morant and other key players, suggests that Memphis will be a formidable opponent in the upcoming series. Will Edey continue to impress? Only time will tell.

By Damichael Cole, Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal.